Camera

ABSTRACT

There is provided a camera of which operability is good regardless of the brightness of the surrounding environment. The brightness of the surrounding environment is detected by a brightness detection unit provided in a camera. The contents of settings of the camera are displayed on a sub-display 18 in a situation in which the surrounding environment is bright. The contents of settings of the camera and an image representing the set state of a shutter speed dial 33 are displayed on the sub-display 18 in a case in which the surrounding environment is dark.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a Continuation of PCT InternationalApplication No. PCT/JP2017/009576 filed on Mar. 9, 2017 claimingpriority under 35 U.S.C § 119(a) to Japanese Patent Application No.2016-051285 filed on Mar. 15, 2016. Each of the above applications ishereby expressly incorporated by reference, in their entirety, into thepresent application.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a camera, and more particularly, to acamera that includes a rotary dial on a camera body.

2. Description of the Related Art

In the past, most high-end cameras, such lens-interchangeable cameras,have employed an operation system that includes a rotary dial as a maincomponent. Since the operation system, which includes a rotary dial as amain component, can be intuitively operated and the set state of theoperation system can also be confirmed at a glance, the operation systemis employed in many cameras even today.

However, since a user operates the rotary dial while looking at a dialplate, there is a drawback that it is difficult to operate the rotarydial in a dark place.

A structure that includes an illumination lamp built in a dial having alock function and turns on the illumination lamp built in the dial inconjunction with an operation for releasing the lock of the dial isproposed in JP2015-154323A. Further, a structure that displays the imagepicture of the dial on a monitor for image display, which is provided onthe back of a camera body, in conjunction with an operation forreleasing the lock of the dial is proposed in JP2015-154323A.

Furthermore, a structure that displays the image picture of a dial on amonitor for image display, which is provided on the back of a camerabody, in conjunction with the operation of an illumination button isproposed in JP2003-110882A.

Moreover, a structure that detects a touch with a dial and displays theimage picture of the dial on a monitor for image display provided on theback of a camera body is proposed in WO2014/002659A.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

However, in a case in which the illumination lamp is built in the dialas in JP2015-154323A, there are drawbacks that the internal structure ofthe dial is complicated and costs are increased.

Further, in a case in which the image picture of the dial is displayedon the monitor for image display in conjunction with an operation forreleasing the lock of the dial as in JP2015-154323A, the image pictureof the dial is displayed on the monitor for image display even in anenvironment where the dial plate can be visually recognized. For thisreason, there is a problem that operability rather deteriorates. Thesame problem as the above-mentioned problem occurs even in a case inwhich a touch with a dial is detected and the image picture of the dialis displayed on the monitor for image display provided on the back ofthe camera body as in WO2014/002659A.

Further, there is a drawback that an intuitive operational feeling isdamaged in the structure that displays the image picture of the dial onthe monitor for image display in conjunction with the operation of theillumination button as in JP2003-110882A.

The invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentionedcircumstances, and an object of the invention is to provide a camera ofwhich operability is good regardless of the brightness of thesurrounding environment.

Means for achieving the above-mentioned object are as follows.

(1) A camera comprising:

a rotary dial on which a plurality of selectable items are displayed ina rotation direction and which is used to fit an item to be set to anindicator to select the item;

a brightness detection unit that detects a brightness of a surroundingenvironment;

a display unit; and

a display control unit that controls a display on the display unit,

wherein the display control unit displays contents of settings of thecamera on the display unit and displays an image, which represents a setstate of the dial, on the display unit in a case in which the brightnessdetected by the brightness detection unit is equal to or lower than aprescribed brightness.

According to this aspect, the contents of settings of the camera aredisplayed on the display unit in a situation in which the surroundingenvironment is bright. On the other hand, the image representing the setstate of the dial is displayed on the display unit in a case in whichthe surrounding environment is dark. Accordingly, the dial can beappropriately operated even in a situation in which the surroundingenvironment is dark. Further, since the image representing the set stateof the dial is displayed on the display unit only in a situation inwhich the surrounding environment is dark, there is no damage to theoperability of the camera in a situation in which the surroundingenvironment is bright.

(2) The camera according to (1),

wherein the display control unit changes the image, which represents theset state of the dial, according to a rotational operation of the dial.

According to this aspect, a display on the display unit is changedaccording to the rotational operation of the dial. That is, the imagerepresenting the set state of the dial is changed according to therotational operation of the dial. Accordingly, since a display, which isin conjunction with the operation of the dial, is made, it is possibleto easily select a desired item.

(3) The camera according to (1), further comprising:

a touch detection unit that detects a touch with the dial,

wherein the display control unit displays the image, which representsthe set state of the dial, on the display unit in a case in which thebrightness detected by the brightness detection unit is equal to orlower than the prescribed brightness and a touch with the dial isdetected by the touch detection unit.

According to this aspect, the image representing the set state of thedial is not displayed in a case in which the surrounding environment ismerely darkened, and the image representing the set state of the dial isdisplayed on the display unit in a case in which a touch with the dialis detected. Accordingly, since the image representing the set state ofthe dial can be displayed only in a case in which the image representingthe set state of the dial really needs to be displayed on the displayunit, it is possible to further improve the operability of the entirecamera.

(4) The camera according to (1),

wherein the display control unit displays the image, which representsthe set state of the dial, on the display unit in a case in which thebrightness detected by the brightness detection unit is equal to orlower than the prescribed brightness and the dial is rotationallyoperated, and changes the image, which represents the set state of thedial, according to a rotational operation of the dial.

According to this aspect, the image representing the set state of thedial is not displayed in a case in which the surrounding environment ismerely darkened, and the image representing the set state of the dial isdisplayed on the display unit in a case in which the dial isrotationally operated. Accordingly, since the image representing the setstate of the dial can be displayed only in a case in which the imagerepresenting the set state of the dial really needs to be displayed onthe display unit, it is possible to further improve the operability ofthe entire camera. Further, since the displayed image is changedaccording to the rotational operation of the dial, it is possible toeasily select a desired item.

(5) The camera according to any one of (1) to (4),

wherein the display control unit displays an image picture of the dialon the display unit as the image that represents the set state of thedial.

According to this aspect, the image picture of the dial is displayed onthe display unit as the image representing the set state of the dial.Accordingly, since a relationship between a display on the display unitand the dial becomes clear, an intuitive operation can be performed.

(6) The camera according to (5),

wherein the display control unit displays an image picture of a part ofthe dial, which is cut out, on the display unit in a case in which thedisplay control unit displays the image picture of the dial on thedisplay unit as the image that represents the set state of the dial.

According to this aspect, the image picture of a part of the dial, whichis cut out, is displayed as the image representing the set state of thedial. Accordingly, since it is possible to ensure good visibility evenin a case in which the size of the display unit is small, it is possibleto easily select a desired item.

(7) The camera according to any one of (1) to (6),

wherein the display control unit reduces and displays contents ofsettings of the camera on the display unit in a case in which thedisplay control unit displays the image, which represents the set stateof the dial, on the display unit.

According to this aspect, in a case in which the image representing theset state of the dial is to be displayed, the image representing the setstate of the dial and the contents of settings of the camera aredisplayed on the display unit. In this case, the contents of settings ofthe camera are made to be smaller than those at a normal time and aredisplayed. The normal time means a time when the image representing theset state of the dial is not displayed, and is a time when thesurrounding environment is bright. Since the contents of settings of thecamera are also displayed, the contents of settings of the camera can beconfirmed. Accordingly, the operability of the camera can be furtherimproved. Further, since the contents of settings of the camera arereduced in size and are displayed, the image representing the set stateof the dial can be made to be easy to see.

(8) The camera according to any one of (1) to (7),

wherein the dial is disposed on a top surface of a camera body.

According to this aspect, the dial is provided on the top surface of thecamera body. The settings of the dial can be easily confirmed.

(9) The camera according to (8),

wherein the display unit is disposed on the top surface of the camerabody.

According to this aspect, the dial and the display unit are provided onthe top surface of the camera body. Accordingly, since a relationshipbetween the dial and a display on the display unit can be made clearerin a case in which the image representing the set state of the dial isdisplayed on the display unit, operability can be further improved.Further, since the dial and the display unit are disposed on the samesurface, it is possible to easily operate the dial while looking at thedisplay unit. To allow a more intuitive operation to be performed, it ispreferable that the display unit and the dial are disposed close to eachother.

(10) The camera according to any one of (1) to (9),

wherein the display unit is formed of a reflective liquid crystaldisplay provided with an illumination lamp.

According to this aspect, the display unit is formed of a reflectiveliquid crystal display provided with an illumination lamp. Accordingly,good visibility for a display on the display unit can be ensured even inan environment where surroundings are bright.

(11) The camera according to any one of (1) to (9),

wherein the display unit is formed of an electronic paper provided withan illumination lamp.

According to this aspect, the display unit is formed of an electronicpaper provided with an illumination lamp. Accordingly, good visibilityfor a display on the display unit can be ensured even in an environmentwhere surroundings are bright. Further, a display on the display unitcan be confirmed even in a case in which the power supply of the camerais turned off.

(12) The camera according to any one of (1) to (9),

wherein the display unit is formed of a memory liquid crystal displayprovided with an illumination lamp.

According to this aspect, the display unit is formed of a memory liquidcrystal display provided with an illumination lamp. Accordingly, goodvisibility for a display on the display unit can be ensured even in anenvironment where surroundings are bright. Further, a display on thedisplay unit can be confirmed even in a case in which the power supplyof the camera is turned off

(13) The camera according to any one of (10) to (12), furthercomprising:

an illumination lamp-control unit that controls the illumination lamp,

wherein the illumination lamp-control unit turns on the illuminationlamp in a case in which the brightness detected by the brightnessdetection unit is equal to or lower than the prescribed brightness.

According to this aspect, the illumination lamp is turned on in a casein which the surrounding environment is darkened. Accordingly, goodvisibility can be ensured even in an environment where surroundings aredark.

(14) The camera according to any one of (1) to (13),

wherein the brightness detection unit detects the brightness of thesurrounding environment on the basis of imaging light.

According to this aspect, the brightness of the surrounding environmentis detected on the basis of the imaging light. The imaging light islight that is incident on the camera for the purpose of imaging and islight that is incident on the camera through the lens. Since thebrightness of the surrounding environment is detected on the basis ofthe imaging light, the brightness of the surrounding environment can beeasily detected. Particularly, in a case in which the dial is providedon the top surface of the camera body, the brightness of the top surfacecan be appropriately detected since the brightness of the surroundingenvironment is detected on the basis of the imaging light. That is,since the brightness of the top surface is substantially the same as thebrightness of the imaging light, the brightness of the top surface canbe detected in a case in which the brightness of the surroundingenvironment is detected on the basis of the imaging light. Accordingly,it is possible to appropriately control a display on the display unitaccording to the brightness of the surrounding environment.

(15) The camera according to any one of (1) to (14),

wherein at least one of a shutter speed, a stop value, or sensitivity,which is set, is included in the contents of settings of the cameradisplayed on the display unit.

According to this aspect, at least one of a shutter speed, a stop value,or sensitivity is displayed as the contents of settings of the camera.

According to the invention, it is possible to provide a camera of whichoperability is good regardless of the brightness of the surroundingenvironment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front view showing the appearance of a digital camera.

FIG. 2 is a back view showing the appearance of the digital camera.

FIG. 3 is a plan view showing the appearance of the digital camera.

FIG. 4 is a left side view showing the appearance of the digital camera.

FIG. 5 is a plan view of the digital camera on which a lens is mounted.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged plan view of a portion near a shutter speed dial.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of acontrol system of the digital camera.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a display on a sub-display ina case in which the surrounding environment is dark.

FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram of a display control unit.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of display processing on asub-display performed by the display control unit.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the procedure of display processing onthe sub-display performed by the display control unit.

FIG. 12 is a functional block diagram of the display control unit.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the procedure of display processing onthe sub-display performed by the display control unit.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing another example of an image representingthe set state of the dial.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing another example of an image representingthe set state of the dial.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing another example of an image representingthe set state of the dial.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing another example of an image representingthe set state of the dial.

FIG. 18 is a plan view showing the appearance of a digital camera thatincludes a sensitivity dial and a shutter speed dial on a camera body.

FIG. 19 is a plan view of the sensitivity dial.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the procedure of display processing on asub-display performed by a display control unit.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a display for a dark place ona sub-display in a case in which the sensitivity dial is operated.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of another form of the dial.

FIG. 23 is a functional block diagram of an illumination lamp-controlunit.

FIG. 24 is a left side view showing an example of a digital camera ofwhich a main display is formed of a variable-angle display.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described in detail belowwith reference to accompanying drawings.

First Embodiment

<<Appearance>>

FIGS. 1, 2, 3, and 4 are a front view, a back view, a plan view, and aleft side view showing the appearance of a digital camera, respectively.

In this specification, a direction parallel to an optical axis L isreferred to as a front-rear direction and a subject side is referred toas a front side. Further, on a plane orthogonal to the optical axis L, adirection parallel to a long side of an image sensor 50 (an x directionin FIG. 1) is referred to as a lateral direction or a left-rightdirection and a direction parallel to a short side of the image sensor50 (a y direction in FIG. 1) is referred to as a vertical direction oran up-down direction.

A digital camera 1 of this embodiment is a lens-interchangeable digitalcamera, and is a non-reflex digital camera. The lens-interchangeabledigital camera is a digital camera of which a lens can be interchanged.The non-reflex digital camera is a digital camera not including a reflexmirror for guiding light, which is incident from a lens, to an opticalviewfinder. The non-reflex digital camera is also referred to as amirrorless digital camera.

FIG. 5 is a plan view of the digital camera on which a lens is mounted.As shown in FIG. 5, the digital camera 1 of this embodiment is used in astate in which a lens 2 is mounted on a camera body 10. The camera body10 is provided with a lens mount 14, a main display 16, a sub-display18, an electronic view finder 20, various operation buttons, and thelike.

<Camera Body>

The camera body 10 has the shape of a rectangular box that is thin inthe front-rear direction. One (left in FIG. 1) end portion of the camerabody 10 is formed as a grip portion 12. A grip 22 is provided on thefront side of the grip portion 12, and a thumb rest 24 is provided onthe back side of the grip portion 12.

<Lens Mount>

The lens mount 14 is a mounting portion for the lens 2. As shown in FIG.1, the lens mount 14 is provided on the front of the camera body 10.

<Main Display>

The main display 16 is a large-screen display for displaying an imageand the like. The main display 16 is used to display a taken image, todisplay a live view image, or to mainly display an image. Further, themain display 16 is used as a setting screen that is used to performvarious settings. That is, the main display 16 is also used as agraphical user interface (GUI). As shown in FIG. 2, the main display 16is provided on the back of the camera body 10. The main display 16 isformed of, for example, a color liquid crystal display (LCD).

<Sub-Display>

The sub-display 18 is a small-screen display for displaying the contentsof settings of the camera, and the like. As shown in FIG. 3, thesub-display 18 is provided on the top surface of the camera body 10. Thesub-display 18 is formed of, for example, a reflective liquid crystaldisplay (reflective LCD) provided with an illumination lamp.

<Electronic View Finder>

The electronic view finder 20 is provided on the top surface of thecamera body 10. As shown in FIG. 2, an eyepiece portion 20A of theelectronic view finder 20 is disposed on the back of the camera body 10.

<Operation Buttons>

The camera body 10 is provided with a shutter button 30, a power supplylever 31, a front command dial 32, a shutter speed dial 33, anillumination button 35, a function button 36, a first rear command dial37, a second rear command dial 38, selector buttons 39, a menu button40, a cancel button 41, a play button 42, a delete button 43, an imagingcondition-setting button 44, and the like as the operation buttons.

The shutter button 30 is a member that is used to instruct the camera toperform imaging. The shutter button 30 is formed of a so-calledtwo-stage switch that has a half-pressed stage and a fully-pressedstage. In a case in which the shutter button 30 is half pressed, themetering of light, the measurement of a distance, or the like isperformed. In a case in which the shutter button 30 is fully pressed,main imaging is performed. The shutter button 30 is provided at the topportion of the grip 22.

The power supply lever 31 is a member that is used to switch on and offa power supply. The power supply lever 31 is disposed coaxially with theshutter button 30, and is rotationally operated between an ON positionand an OFF position.

The front command dial 32 is a member to be rotationally operated, andvarious functions are assigned to the front command dial 32 according tothe set state of the digital camera 1. The front command dial 32 isadapted to be capable of endlessly rotating and being operated bypressing. An operation for pressing the front command dial is anoperation for pressing the front command dial in a direction orthogonalto a rotation axis. Further, the front command dial 32 includes a clickmechanism, and generates a click feeling at regular angular intervals ina case in which the front command dial 32 is rotationally operated. Thefront command dial 32 is provided in the grip 22, and is disposed sothat a portion of the front command dial 32 is exposed to the outersurface of the grip 22. A user turns the portion of the front commanddial 32, which is exposed to the outer surface of the grip 22, with afinger to rotationally operate the front command dial 32. Further, auser presses the portion of the front command dial 32, which is exposedto the outer surface of the grip 22, to the inside of the grip with afinger to press the front command dial 32.

The shutter speed dial 33 is a member that is used to set a shutterspeed. As shown in FIG. 2, the shutter speed dial 33 is provided on thetop surface of the camera body 10. The shutter speed dial 33 is disposedadjacent to the sub-display 18.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged plan view of a portion near the shutter speeddial.

The shutter speed dial 33 is formed of a rotary dial. The shutter speeddial 33 has the shape of a disc, and is adapted to be capable ofendlessly rotating about an axis.

The shutter speed dial 33 includes a dial plate 33 a on the top surface(upper surface) thereof. A plurality of selectable values of a shutterspeed is displayed on the dial plate 33 a as selectable items. Theselectable values of a shutter speed are displayed at regular intervalsin a rotation direction. In the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, 1,½, ¼, ⅛, 1/15, 1/30, 1/60, 1/125, 1/180, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000,1/4000, and 1/8000 (sec.) are prepared as the selectable values of ashutter speed. Marks of the values of a shutter speed displayed on thedial plate are shown as reciprocals. That is, 1, ½, ¼, ⅛, 1/15, 1/30,1/60, 1/125, 1/180, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000, 1/4000, and 1/8000(sec.) are displayed as 1, 2, 4, 6, 15, 30, 60, 125, 180, 250, 500,1000, 2000, 4000, and 8000, respectively. Accordingly, in a case inwhich, for example, “60” shown on the dial plate is selected, a shutterspeed is set to 1/60 sec. Further, a time-imaging mode and abulb-imaging mode are prepared as items to be capable of being selectedby the shutter speed dial 33. Marks of the respective items displayed onthe dial plate are T and B. The time-imaging mode is set in a case inwhich “T” displayed on the dial plate is selected, and the bulb-imagingmode is set in a case in which “B” is selected. The time-imaging mode isa mode in which exposure is performed only for a time optionallydesignated by a user. The bulb-imaging mode is a mode in which exposureis performed only while the shutter button 30 is pressed. Both thetime-imaging mode and the bulb-imaging mode are selected in a case inwhich exposure needs to be performed for a time longer than 1 second.

An indicator 34, which is used to select a shutter speed, is providednear the shutter speed dial 33. In the digital camera 1 of thisembodiment, the indicator 34 is provided between the shutter speed dial33 and the sub-display 18 (the indicator 34 is provided at a positioncorresponding to three o'clock in a case in which the indicator 34 isseen from the shutter speed dial 33). A user fits the mark of a shutterspeed, which is desired to be selected, to the position of the indicator34 to select the shutter speed. For example, in a case in which 1/60 secis to be selected as a shutter speed, a user rotates the shutter speeddial 33 to fit “60” of the marks of the dial plate 33 a to the indicator34.

The shutter speed dial 33 includes a click mechanism, and generatesclick feelings so as to correspond to the pitch of the marks of the dialplate 33 a in a case in which the shutter speed dial 33 is rotationallyoperated. A position where the shutter speed dial 33 is to beclick-stopped coincides with the position of the indicator 34.Accordingly, in a case in which the shutter speed dial 33 is rotated ina normal direction (in FIG. 6, a clockwise direction indicated by anarrow R+), the marks are moved up one by one by each click. Further, ina case in which the shutter speed dial 33 is rotated in a reversedirection (in FIG. 6, a counterclockwise direction indicated by an arrowR−), the marks are moved down one by one by each click.

The illumination button 35 is a member that is used to switch on and offthe illumination lamp of the sub-display 18. Whenever the illuminationbutton 35 is pressed, the illumination lamp of the sub-display 18 isswitched to be turned on and off. The illumination button 35 is providedon the top surface of the camera body 10.

Various functions are assigned to the function button 36 according tothe set state of the digital camera 1. The function button 36 isprovided on the top surface of the camera body 10. The function button36 and the illumination button 35 are arranged in parallel and aredisposed near the sub-display 18.

The first rear command dial 37 is a member to be rotationally operated,and various functions are assigned to the first rear command dial 37according to the set state of the digital camera 1. The first rearcommand dial 37 is adapted to be capable of endlessly rotating and beingoperated by pressing. Further, the first rear command dial 37 includes aclick mechanism, and generates a click feeling at regular angularintervals in a case in which the first rear command dial 37 isrotationally operated. The first rear command dial 37 is provided on theback of the camera body 10, and is disposed so that a portion of thefirst rear command dial 37 is exposed to the back of the camera body 10.

The second rear command dial 38 is a member to be rotationally operated,and various functions are assigned to the second rear command dial 38according to the set state of the digital camera 1. The second rearcommand dial 38 is adapted to be capable of endlessly rotating and beingoperated by pressing. Further, the second rear command dial 38 includesa click mechanism, and generates a click feeling at regular angularintervals in a case in which the second rear command dial 38 isrotationally operated. The second rear command dial 38 is provided onthe back of the camera body 10, and is disposed so that a portion of thesecond rear command dial 38 is exposed to the back of the camera body10.

The first and second rear command dials 37 and 38 are arranged inparallel on the back of the camera body 10, and are disposed to becapable of rotationally operating in a horizontal direction.Particularly, in the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, the first andsecond rear command dials 37 and 38 are arranged in parallel near thethumb rest 24 so as to be capable of being operated by a thumb of a handthat grips the camera body 10. Further, in the digital camera 1 of thisembodiment, each of the first and second rear command dials 37 and 38 isdisposed so that a portion of each of the first and second rear commanddials 37 and 38 overlaps the sub-display 18. That is, the first andsecond rear command dials 37 and 38 are disposed so as to be hiddenunder the sub-display 18.

The selector buttons 39 are buttons that can be used to giveinstructions in four directions, that is, to the upper side, the lowerside, the left side, and the right side, and are formed of four buttonsthat are arranged on the same circle. Functions corresponding to the setstate of the digital camera 1 are assigned to the buttons correspondingto the respective directions. The selector buttons 39 are provided onthe back of the camera body 10.

The menu button 40 is a button that is used to call a menu screen. In acase in which the menu button 40 is pressed, a menu screen used toperform various settings is displayed on the main display 16. The menubutton 40 also functions as a decision button (OK button), and is usedfor the decision of an item to be selected, and the like. The menubutton 40 is provided on the back of the camera body 10.

The cancel button 41 is a button that is used to instruct the camera tocancel an operation. In a case in which the cancel button 41 is pressed,an instruction to cancel an item to be selected, or the like is input.The cancel button 41 is provided on the back of the camera body 10.

The play button 42 is a button that is used to switch a mode to aplayback mode. In a case in which the play button 42 is pressed, themode of the digital camera 1 is switched to a playback mode. In a casein which the playback mode is set, a taken image is read from a memorycard and is played and displayed on the main display 16. The play button42 is provided on the back of the camera body 10.

The delete button 43 is a button that is used to instruct the camera todelete the taken image. In a case in which the delete button 43 ispressed during the playback of the image, the image, which is beingplayed, is deleted from the memory card. The delete button 43 isprovided on the back of the camera body 10.

The imaging condition-setting button 44 is a button that is used to calla setting screen for imaging conditions. In a case in which the imagingcondition-setting button 44 is pressed, the setting screen for imagingconditions is displayed on the main display 16. The imagingcondition-setting button 44 is provided on the back of the camera body10.

<<Control System>>

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of acontrol system of the digital camera.

The digital camera 1 includes an image sensor 50, an image sensor driveunit 52, a shutter 54, a shutter drive unit 56, an analog signalprocessing section 58, an image data input unit 60, a work memory 62, adata memory 64, a digital signal processing section 66, a recordingcontrol unit 68, a main display drive unit 70, a sub-display drive unit72, an operation unit 74, a brightness detection unit 76, a systemcontroller 80, and the like.

The image sensor 50 converts an optical image of a subject, which isformed through the lens 2, into electrical signals and outputs theelectrical signals. A publicly known image sensor, such as a chargedcoupled device (CCD) image sensor or a complementary metal oxidesemiconductor (CMOS) image sensor, is used as the image sensor 50.

The image sensor drive unit 52 drives the image sensor 50 according to acommand output from the system controller 80.

The shutter 54 is formed of a square type focal-plane shutter, and isdisposed directly in front of the image sensor 50.

The shutter drive unit 56 drives the shutter 54 according to a commandoutput from the system controller 80.

The analog signal processing section 58 receives the signals output fromthe image sensor 50, and performs required signal processing, such ascorrelated double sampling processing and amplification processing.Further, the analog signal processing section 58 converts analog imagesignals, which have been subjected to required signal processing, intodigital image signals and outputs the digital image signals.

The image data input unit 60 receives the digital image signals, whichare output from the analog signal processing section 58, according to acommand output from the system controller 80. Received image datacorresponding to one sheet is stored in the work memory 62.

The work memory 62 is used as a memory for work. The data memory 64 isformed of a non-volatile memory, and various data required for controland the like are stored in the data memory 64.

The digital signal processing section 66 performs required signalprocessing, such as demosaicing processing, white balance correction,gamma correction, and outline correction, on the image data received inthe work memory 62, and generates predetermined image data formed ofbrightness data (Y data) and color difference data (Cr and Cb data).

The recording control unit 68 has access to the memory card 78 and readsand writes data according to a command output from the system controller80. Image data, which is obtained from imaging, is recorded in thememory card 78.

The main display drive unit 70 drives the main display 16 according to acommand output from the system controller 80.

The sub-display drive unit 72 drives the sub-display 18 according to acommand output from the system controller 80.

The operation unit 74 includes the shutter button 30, the power supplylever 31, the front command dial 32, the shutter speed dial 33, theillumination button 35, the function button 36, the first rear commanddial 37, the second rear command dial 38, the selector buttons 39, themenu button 40, the cancel button 41, the play button 42, the deletebutton 43, and the like. The operation unit 74 outputs a signal, whichcorresponds to the operation of each operation member, to the systemcontroller 80.

The brightness detection unit 76 detects the brightness of thesurrounding environment. In the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, thebrightness detection unit 76 detects the brightness of the surroundingenvironment on the basis of the imaging light. That is, the brightnessdetection unit 76 detects the brightness of the surrounding environmenton the basis of the image data obtained from imaging. The brightnessdetection unit 76 acquires image data from the digital signal processingsection 66, and detects the brightness of the surrounding environment onthe basis of the acquired image data. Specifically, the brightnessdetection unit 76 calculates the brightness of the surroundingenvironment on the basis of brightness data.

The system controller 80 is a control unit that controls the operationof each unit of the digital camera 1. The system controller 80 is formedof a microcomputer. That is, the microcomputer functions as the systemcontroller 80 by executing a predetermined control program, andfunctions as a control unit that controls the operation of each unit ofthe digital camera 1.

The system controller 80 also functions as a control unit for the lens2. The system controller 80 controls the operation of the lens 2 througha lens drive unit 2 a provided for the lens 2. The lens 2 includes astop, a focus lens, and the like. The lens drive unit 2 a includes astop drive unit that drives the stop, a focus lens drive unit thatdrives the focus lens, and the like.

<<Display Control of Sub-Display>>

In the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, a display on the sub-display18, which is a display unit, is switched on the basis of the brightnessof the surrounding environment. That is, the contents of settings of thedigital camera 1 are displayed on the sub-display 18 in a situation inwhich the surrounding environment is bright. On the other hand, an imagerepresenting the set state of the shutter speed dial 33 is displayed onthe sub-display 18 in a case in which the surrounding environment isdarkened.

<Case in which Surrounding Environment is Bright>

FIG. 6 shows an example of a display on the sub-display 18 in a case inwhich the surrounding environment is bright.

As shown in FIG. 6, the contents of the current settings of the digitalcamera 1 are displayed on the sub-display 18 in a case in which thesurrounding environment is bright. This display is referred to as anormal display. In the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, pieces ofinformation on a shutter speed A1, a stop value (F-Number) A2, ISOsensitivity A3 (ISO: International Organization for Standardization),the number A4 of times of imaging that can be performed, an imaging modeA5, an image size A6, and remaining battery power A7 are displayed asthe contents of settings. The respective pieces of information aredisplayed at prescribed positions.

The actual set values of the shutter speed A1, the stop value A2, theISO sensitivity A3, and the number A4 of times of imaging that can beperformed are displayed as numerical values.

Further, icons corresponding to the contents of settings are displayedin regard to the imaging mode A5 and the image size A6. In the digitalcamera 1 of this embodiment, a program mode, a shutter speed prioritymode, a stop priority mode, and a manual mode are prepared as an imagingmode and an icon corresponding to each mode is displayed at a displayposition for the imaging mode. Here, the program mode is a mode where acamera automatically determines a stop value and a shutter speed so thatan exposure is appropriate. The shutter speed priority mode is a modewhere a camera automatically determines a stop value so that an exposureis appropriate for a shutter speed selected by a user. The stop prioritymode is a mode where a camera automatically determines a shutter speedso that an exposure is appropriate for a stop value selected by a user.The manual mode is a mode where a user determines a shutter speed and astop value to take an image.

An icon corresponding to the remaining power of a battery is displayedin regard to the remaining battery power A7.

<Case in which Surrounding Environment is Dark>

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a display on the sub-displayin a case in which the surrounding environment is dark.

As shown in FIG. 8, the contents of the current settings of the digitalcamera 1 and the image representing the set state of the shutter speeddial 33 are displayed in a case in which the surrounding environment isdark. This display is referred to as a display for a dark place.

In the example shown in FIG. 8, an image picture Im1 of the shutterspeed dial 33 and an image picture Im2 of the indicator 34 are displayedon the sub-display 18 as the image representing the set state of theshutter speed dial 33. Here, the image picture is an image that imitatesthe appearance of the shutter speed dial 33. Particularly, in theexample shown in FIG. 8, the image of a part (a half in the exampleshown in FIG. 8) of the shutter speed dial 33, which is cut out, isdisplayed on the sub-display 18 as the image picture Im1. Further, inthe example shown in FIG. 8, a shutter speed selected by the shutterspeed dial 33 is enlarged and displayed so that the selected shutterspeed becomes clear.

The contents of the current settings of the digital camera 1 aredisplayed in a margin area. In this case, as necessary, a layout ischanged, is reduced in size, and is displayed. Further, items to bedisplayed are thinned out and displayed as necessary. For example, onlya stop value and ISO sensitivity are displayed.

Since the image representing the set state of the shutter speed dial 33is displayed on the sub-display 18 as described above in a case in whichthe surrounding environment is dark, the shutter speed dial 33 can beoperated even in a situation in which the surrounding environment isdark.

<Display Control>

The display control of the sub-display 18 is performed by the systemcontroller 80. The system controller 80 functions as a display controlunit 80 a for the sub-display 18 by executing a predetermined controlprogram.

FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram of the display control unit.

The display control unit 80 a acquires the detection result ofbrightness from the brightness detection unit 76. Then, the displaycontrol unit 80 a compares the acquired brightness and a thresholdvalue. That is, the display control unit 80 a determines whether or notthe brightness of the surrounding environment is equal to or lower thana prescribed brightness. In a case in which the brightness exceeds thethreshold value, the display control unit 80 a determines that thesurrounding environment is bright and switches a display on thesub-display 18 to the normal display. That is, as shown in FIG. 6, thedisplay control unit 80 a displays the contents of the current settingsof the digital camera 1 on the sub-display 18. On the other hand, in acase in which the brightness is equal to or lower than the thresholdvalue, the display control unit 80 a determines that the surroundingenvironment is dark and displays the image, which represents the setstate of the shutter speed dial 33, on the sub-display 18.

The image data of the image picture Im1 of the shutter speed dial 33 andthe image data of the image picture Im2 of the indicator 34 are storedin the data memory 64. In a case in which the display control unit 80 ais to display the image, which represents the set state of the shutterspeed dial 33, on the sub-display 18, the display control unit 80 aacquires the image data of the image picture Im1 of the shutter speeddial 33 and the image data of the image picture Im2 of the indicator 34from the data memory 64 and generates data to be displayed on thesub-display 18. Then, the display control unit 80 a drives thesub-display drive unit 72 on the basis of generated expression data anddisplays information on the sub-display 18.

In a case in which the shutter speed dial 33 is rotationally operatedduring the display of the image representing the set state of theshutter speed dial 33, the display control unit 80 a also changes theimage representing the set state of the shutter speed dial 33. In a casein which the display control unit 80 a displays the image picture Im1 ofthe shutter speed dial 33 as the image representing the set state of theshutter speed dial 33, the display control unit 80 a rotates the imagepicture Im in conjunction with the rotation of the shutter speed dial33. That is, the image picture Im is rotated like an animation.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of display processing onthe sub-display performed by the display control unit.

First, the display control unit 80 a acquires information on thebrightness of the surrounding environment (Step S11). The displaycontrol unit 80 a acquires the information on the brightness of thesurrounding environment from the brightness detection unit 76.

Next, the display control unit 80 a determines whether or not thebrightness of the surrounding environment is equal to or lower than athreshold value on the basis of the acquired information on thebrightness (Step S12). That is, the display control unit 80 a determineswhether or not the brightness of the surrounding environment is equal toor lower than certain brightness.

If the brightness of the surrounding environment is not equal to orlower than the threshold value, that is, if the surrounding environmentis bright, the display control unit 80 a switches a display on thesub-display 18 to the normal display (Step S13). That is, the displaycontrol unit 80 a acquires the current setting information of thedigital camera 1, and displays the contents of the current settings ofthe digital camera 1 on the sub-display 18 with a predetermined layoutas shown in FIG. 6.

On the other hand, if the brightness of the surrounding environment isequal to or lower than the threshold value, that is, if the surroundingenvironment is dark, the display control unit 80 a switches a display onthe sub-display 18 to the display for a dark place (Step S14). That is,the display control unit 80 a acquires the current setting informationof the digital camera 1 and the setting information of the shutter speeddial 33, and displays the contents of the current settings of thedigital camera 1 and the image, which represents the set state of theshutter speed dial 33, on the sub-display 18 as shown in FIG. 8.

After that, the display control unit 80 a determines whether or not thepower supply is turned off (Step S15). If the power supply is turnedoff, the display control unit 80 a ends processing. On the other hand,if the power supply is not turned off, the display control unit 80 areturns to Step S11 and repeatedly performs the above-mentionedrespective pieces of processing.

As described above, in the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, adisplay on the sub-display 18 is switched according to the brightness ofthe surrounding environment and the contents of settings of the cameraare displayed on the display unit in a situation in which thesurrounding environment is bright. On the other hand, the imagerepresenting the set state of the shutter speed dial 33 is displayed ina case in which the surrounding environment is dark. Accordingly, theshutter speed dial 33 can be appropriately operated even in a situationin which the surrounding environment is dark. Further, since the imagerepresenting the set state of the shutter speed dial 33 is displayedonly in a situation in which the surrounding environment is dark, thereis no damage to operability in a situation in which the surroundingenvironment is bright.

Furthermore, since the display control unit 80 a displays the imagepicture Im1 imitating the shutter speed dial 33 in a case in which thedisplay control unit 80 a is to display the image representing the setstate of the shutter speed dial 33, a relationship between the shutterspeed dial 33 and a display on the sub-display 18 becomes clear.Accordingly, an intuitively clear operation system can be provided.

Moreover, since the sub-display 18 is disposed adjacent to the shutterspeed dial 33 and the image picture Im1 of the shutter speed dial 33 isdisplayed on the side close to the shutter speed dial 33, a relationshipbetween the image picture Im1 and the shutter speed dial 33 can be madeclearer.

Further, since a display on the sub-display 18 is changed in conjunctionwith the operation of the shutter speed dial 33, good operability can beensured.

Second Embodiment

In a digital camera of this embodiment, the image representing the setstate of the shutter speed dial is displayed on a sub-display in a casein which the surrounding environment is darkened and the shutter speeddial is rotationally operated.

The structure other than a structure, which is related with the displaycontrol of the sub-display, is the same as the structure of the digitalcamera 1 of the first embodiment. Accordingly, only a portion relatedwith the display control of the sub-display will be described here.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the procedure of display processing onthe sub-display performed by the display control unit.

First, the display control unit 80 a acquires information on thebrightness of the surrounding environment (Step S21). The displaycontrol unit 80 a acquires the information on the brightness of thesurrounding environment from the brightness detection unit 76.

Next, the display control unit 80 a determines whether or not thebrightness of the surrounding environment is equal to or lower than athreshold value on the basis of the acquired information on thebrightness (Step S22). That is, the display control unit 80 a determineswhether or not the brightness of the surrounding environment is equal toor lower than certain brightness.

If the brightness of the surrounding environment is not equal to orlower than the threshold value, the display control unit 80 a switches adisplay on the sub-display 18 to the normal display (Step S27). That is,the display control unit 80 a displays the contents of the currentsettings of the digital camera 1 on the sub-display 18 as shown in FIG.6.

On the other hand, if the brightness of the surrounding environment isequal to or lower than the threshold value, the display control unit 80a determines whether or not the shutter speed dial 33 is rotationallyoperated on the basis of information obtained from the operation unit 74(Step S23).

If the shutter speed dial 33 is not rotationally operated, the displaycontrol unit 80 a switches a display on the sub-display 18 to the normaldisplay (Step S27). That is, the display control unit 80 a acquires thecurrent setting information of the digital camera 1, and displays thecontents of the current settings of the digital camera 1 on thesub-display 18 with a predetermined layout as shown in FIG. 6.

On the other hand, if the shutter speed dial 33 is rotationallyoperated, the display control unit 80 a switches a display on thesub-display 18 to the display for a dark place (Step S24). That is, thedisplay control unit 80 a acquires the current setting information ofthe digital camera 1 and the setting information of the shutter speeddial 33, and displays the contents of the current settings of thedigital camera 1 and the image, which represents the set state of theshutter speed dial 33, on the sub-display 18 as shown in FIG. 8.

The display control unit 80 a switches a display on the sub-display 18to the display for a dark place during the rotational operation of theshutter speed dial 33. In this case, the display control unit 80 achanges a display in conjunction with the operation of the shutter speeddial 33. In a case in which the display control unit 80 a displays theimage picture Im1 of the shutter speed dial 33 on the sub-display 18 asthe image representing the set state of the shutter speed dial 33, thedisplay control unit 80 a rotates the image picture Im in conjunctionwith the rotational operation of the shutter speed dial 33.

The display control unit 80 a determines whether or not the rotationaloperation of the shutter speed dial 33 ends (Step S25). The displaycontrol unit 80 a continues to switch a display on the sub-display 18 tothe display for a dark place during the operation.

If the rotational operation of the shutter speed dial 33 ends, thedisplay control unit 80 a determines whether or not a predetermined timepasses from the end of the operation (Step S26). That is, even thoughthe operation ends, the display for a dark place is continued for thepredetermined time.

If the predetermined time passes after the rotational operation of theshutter speed dial 33 ends, the display control unit 80 a switches adisplay on the sub-display 18 to the normal display (Step S27).

After that, the display control unit 80 a determines whether or not thepower supply is turned off (Step S28). If the power supply is turnedoff, the display control unit 80 a ends processing. On the other hand,if the power supply is not turned off, the display control unit 80 areturns to Step S21 and repeatedly performs the above-mentionedrespective pieces of processing.

In the digital camera of this embodiment, as described above, a displayon the sub-display 18 is switched to the display for a dark place onlyin a case in which the shutter speed dial 33 is rotationally operated.That is, as long as the shutter speed dial 33 is not rotationallyoperated even though the surrounding environment is dark, the normaldisplay is maintained. Accordingly, since a display on the sub-display18 can be switched to a display suitable for a situation in which thedigital camera 1 is used, the operability of the entire digital cameracan be further improved.

Third Embodiment

In a digital camera of this embodiment, the image representing the setstate of the shutter speed dial is displayed on the sub-display in acase in which the surrounding environment is darkened and the shutterspeed dial is touched by a finger.

The structure other than a structure, which is related with the displaycontrol of the sub-display, is the same as the structure of the digitalcamera 1 of the first embodiment. Accordingly, only a portion relatedwith the display control of the sub-display will be described here.

FIG. 12 is a functional block diagram of the display control unit.

The shutter speed dial 33 is provided with a touch sensor 33T as a touchdetection unit. The touch sensor 33T detects a touch with the shutterspeed dial 33. The touch sensor 33T is provided on, for example, thedial plate 33 a of the shutter speed dial 33.

The display control unit 80 a controls a display on the sub-display 18on the basis of information obtained from the brightness detection unit76 and the operation unit 74.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the procedure of display processing onthe sub-display performed by the display control unit.

First, the display control unit 80 a acquires information on thebrightness of the surrounding environment (Step S31). The displaycontrol unit 80 a acquires the information on the brightness of thesurrounding environment from the brightness detection unit 76.

Next, the display control unit 80 a determines whether or not thebrightness of the surrounding environment is equal to or lower than athreshold value on the basis of the acquired information on thebrightness (Step S32). That is, the display control unit 80 a determineswhether or not the brightness of the surrounding environment is equal toor lower than certain brightness.

If the brightness of the surrounding environment is not equal to orlower than the threshold value, the display control unit 80 a switches adisplay on the sub-display 18 to the normal display (Step S37). That is,the display control unit 80 a displays the contents of the currentsettings of the digital camera 1 on the sub-display 18 as shown in FIG.6.

On the other hand, if the brightness of the surrounding environment isequal to or lower than the threshold value, the display control unit 80a determines whether or not the shutter speed dial 33 is touched on thebasis of the information obtained from the operation unit 74 (Step S33).Specifically, the display control unit 80 a determines whether or notthe shutter speed dial 33 is touched on the basis of an output from thetouch sensor 33T.

If the shutter speed dial 33 is not touched, the display control unit 80a switches a display on the sub-display 18 to the normal display (StepS37). That is, the display control unit 80 a acquires the currentsetting information of the digital camera 1, and displays the contentsof the current settings of the digital camera 1 on the sub-display 18with a predetermined layout as shown in FIG. 6.

On the other hand, if the shutter speed dial 33 is touched, the displaycontrol unit 80 a switches a display on the sub-display 18 to thedisplay for a dark place (Step S34). That is, the display control unit80 a acquires the current setting information of the digital camera 1and the setting information of the shutter speed dial 33, and displaysthe contents of the current settings of the digital camera 1 and theimage, which represents the set state of the shutter speed dial 33, onthe sub-display 18 as shown in FIG. 8.

The display control unit 80 a switches a display on the sub-display 18to the display for a dark place while the shutter speed dial 33 istouched. At this time, the display control unit 80 a changes a displayin conjunction with the rotation of the shutter speed dial 33 in a casein which the shutter speed dial 33 is rotationally operated.

The display control unit 80 a determines whether or not a touch with theshutter speed dial 33 ends (Step S35). The display control unit 80 acontinues to switch a display on the sub-display 18 to the display for adark place while the shutter speed dial 33 is touched.

If a touch with the shutter speed dial 33 ends, the display control unit80 a determines whether or not a predetermined time passes from the endof the touch (Step S36). That is, even though the touch ends, thedisplay for a dark place is continued for the predetermined time.

If the predetermined time passes after the touch with the shutter speeddial 33 ends, the display control unit 80 a switches a display on thesub-display 18 to the normal display (Step S37).

After that, the display control unit 80 a determines whether or not thepower supply is turned off (Step S38). If the power supply is turnedoff, the display control unit 80 a ends processing. On the other hand,if the power supply is not turned off, the display control unit 80 areturns to Step S31 and repeatedly performs the above-mentionedrespective pieces of processing.

In the digital camera of this embodiment, as described above, a displayon the sub-display 18 is switched to the display for a dark place onlyin a case in which the shutter speed dial 33 is touched. That is, aslong as the shutter speed dial 33 is not touched even though thesurrounding environment is dark, the normal display is maintained.Accordingly, since a display on the sub-display 18 can be switched to adisplay suitable for a situation in which the digital camera 1 is used,the operability of the entire digital camera can be further improved.

Other Embodiments Other Examples of Image Representing Set State of Dial

The image picture Im imitating the appearance of the shutter speed dial33 has been displayed as the image representing the set state of thedial in the above-mentioned embodiments, but the image representing theset state of the shutter speed dial is not limited thereto.

Example 1

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing another example of the image representingthe set state of the dial.

In the example shown in FIG. 14, a currently selected shutter speed,shutter speeds that are selectable in a case in which the shutter speeddial 33 is rotated in a normal direction, and shutter speeds that areselectable in a case in which the shutter speed dial 33 is rotated in areverse direction are displayed in window images W+2, W+1, W±0, W−1, andW−2, which are arranged in an arc shape, and form an image representingthe set state of the shutter speed dial.

The reciprocal of the currently selected shutter speed is displayed inthe middle window image W±0. The middle window image W±0 is displayed tobe larger than other window images. Further, the middle window image W±0is indicated by an indicator image I.

The reciprocals of the shutter speeds, which are selectable in a case inwhich the shutter speed dial 33 is rotated in the normal direction, aredisplayed in the window images W+1 and W+2. The reciprocal of theshutter speed, which is selectable in a case in which the shutter speeddial 33 is rotated in the normal direction by one stage (one click), isdisplayed in the window image W+1. The reciprocal of the shutter speed,which is selectable in a case in which the shutter speed dial 33 isrotated in the normal direction by two stages (two clicks), is displayedin the window image W+2.

The reciprocals of the shutter speeds, which can be selected in a casein which the shutter speed dial 33 is rotated in the reverse direction,are displayed in the window images W−1 and W−2. The reciprocal of theshutter speed, which is selectable in a case in which the shutter speeddial 33 is rotated in the reverse direction by one stage, is displayedin the window image W−1. The reciprocal of the shutter speed, which isselectable in a case in which the shutter speed dial 33 is rotated inthe reverse direction by two stages, is displayed in the window imageW−2.

In a case in which the shutter speed dial 33 is rotated in the normaldirection by one stage, all of the window images W+2, W+1, W±0, W−1, andW−2 are rotated clockwise and a display is switched. Further, in a casein which the shutter speed dial 33 is rotated in the reverse directionby one stage, all of the window images W+2, W+1, W±0, W−1, and W−2 arerotated counterclockwise and a display is switched.

A direction where the shutter speed dial 33 is operated with respect tothe indicator 34 coincides with a direction where a display is switched.For this reason, an operation is easy. Furthermore, since the selectedshutter speed is enlarged and displayed, an operation of selection canalso be easy.

The shutter speeds, which correspond to two stages ahead, have beendisplayed in this example, but it is preferable that the number of thedisplays is appropriately set according to the size of the sub-display18, and the like.

Example 2

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing another example of the image representingthe set state of the dial.

In the example shown in FIG. 15, a currently selected shutter speed,shutter speeds that are selectable in a case in which the shutter speeddial 33 is rotated in the normal direction, and shutter speeds that areselectable values in a case in which the shutter speed dial 33 isrotated in the reverse direction are displayed in a band-like area B soas to be arranged vertically and form an image representing the setstate of the shutter speed dial.

The reciprocal of the currently selected shutter speed is displayed inthe middle. The currently selected shutter speed is displayed to belarger than other displays. Further, the currently selected shutterspeed is indicated by an indicator image I.

The reciprocals of the shutter speeds, which are selectable in a case inwhich the shutter speed dial 33 is rotated in the normal direction, aredisplayed above the currently selected shutter speed. An example inwhich the shutter speeds, which correspond to two stages ahead, aredisplayed is shown in this example.

The reciprocals of the shutter speeds, which are selectable in a case inwhich the shutter speed dial 33 is rotated in the reverse direction, aredisplayed below the currently selected shutter speed. An example inwhich the shutter speeds, which correspond to two stages ahead, aredisplayed is shown in this example.

In a case in which the shutter speed dial 33 is rotated in the normaldirection by one stage, a display in the area B overall slides down andis switched. Further, in a case in which the shutter speed dial 33 isrotated in the reverse direction by one stage, a display in the area Boverall slides up and is switched.

A direction where the shutter speed dial 33 is operated with respect tothe indicator 34 substantially coincides with a direction where adisplay is switched. For this reason, an operation is easy. Furthermore,since the selected shutter speed is enlarged and displayed, an operationof selection can also be easy.

The shutter speeds, which correspond to two stages ahead, have beendisplayed in this example, but it is preferable that the number of thedisplays is appropriately set according to the size of the sub-display18, and the like.

Example 3

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing another example of the image representingthe set state of the dial.

In the example shown in FIG. 16, the image of a part of the shutterspeed dial 33, which is cut out and is enlarged, is displayed as theimage picture Im and is displayed to be larger than the actual shutterspeed dial 33.

Since the image of a part of the dial, which is cut out and is enlarged,is displayed as the image picture Im as described above, the numericalvalue of the dial plate can be made to be easily seen. Accordingly,operability can be further improved. Further, since a space where thecontents of settings of the digital camera 1 are displayed can also beensured, the sub-display 18 can be effectively used.

Example 4

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing another example of the image representingthe set state of the dial.

In the example shown in FIG. 17, only the image representing the setstate of the dial is displayed on the sub-display 18 as the display fora dark place. Further, the image picture Im of the entire shutter speeddial 33 is displayed.

As described above, only the image representing the set state of thedial can also be adapted to be displayed as the display for a darkplace.

Other Examples of Dial

A case in which the dial provided on the camera body is a shutter speeddial has been described by way of example in the above-mentionedembodiments, but the dial provided on the camera body is not limitedthereto. Alternatively, a sensitivity dial that is used to set ISOsensitivity, an exposure correction dial that is used to set an exposurecorrection value, an imaging mode dial that is used to set an imagingmode, and the like may be provided on the camera body as the dials; andimages representing the set states of these dials may be displayed onthe sub-display 18.

Furthermore, the image of the dial, which is shown in plan view, hasbeen displayed as the image picture of the dial in the above-mentionedembodiments, but an image, which is shown in perspective view, may bedisplayed.

<Case in which Plural Dials are Provided>

A case in which the invention is applied to a camera including only theshutter speed dial on the camera body has been described by way ofexample in the above-mentioned embodiments, but a plurality of dials canbe provided on the camera body.

FIG. 18 is a plan view showing the appearance of a digital camera thatincludes a sensitivity dial and a shutter speed dial on a camera body.Further, FIG. 19 is a plan view of the sensitivity dial.

As shown in FIG. 18, the shutter speed dial 33 and a sensitivity dial 45are disposed on the top surface of the camera body 10 with theelectronic view finder 20 interposed therebetween.

The sensitivity dial 45 is formed of a rotary dial. The sensitivity dial45 has the shape of a disc, and is adapted to be capable of endlesslyrotating about an axis.

As shown in FIG. 19, the sensitivity dial 45 includes a dial plate 45 aon the top surface (upper surface) thereof. Selectable values ofsensitivity are displayed on the dial plate 45 a as selectable items.The selectable values of sensitivity are displayed at regular intervalsin a rotation direction. In the digital camera 1 of this embodiment,100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200, 6400, 12800, and 25600 are prepared asthe selectable values of sensitivity. Further, automatic sensitivity isprepared as an item to be capable of being selected by the sensitivitydial 45. The automatic sensitivity is a mode where the digital cameraautomatically sets sensitivity. The mark of the automatic sensitivitydisplayed on the dial plate is “A”. Automatic sensitivity is set in acase in which “A” displayed on the dial plate is selected.

An indicator 46, which is used to select sensitivity, is provided nearthe sensitivity dial 45. The indicator 46 is provided at a positioncorresponding to three o'clock in a case in which the indicator 46 isseen from the sensitivity dial 45. A user fits the mark of sensitivity,which is desired to be selected, to the position of the indicator 46 toselect the sensitivity. For example, in a case in which a sensitivity of400 is to be selected, a user rotates the sensitivity dial 45 to fit“400” of the marks of the dial plate 45 a to the indicator 46.

The sensitivity dial 45 includes a click mechanism as in the shutterspeed dial 33, and generates click feelings so as to correspond to thepitch of the marks of the dial plate 45 a in a case in which thesensitivity dial 45 is rotationally operated. A position where thesensitivity dial 45 is to be click-stopped coincides with the positionof the indicator 46. Accordingly, in a case in which the sensitivitydial 45 is rotated in a normal direction (in FIG. 19, a clockwisedirection indicated by an arrow R+), the marks are moved up one by oneby each click. Further, in a case in which the sensitivity dial 45 isrotated in a reverse direction (in FIG. 19, a counterclockwise directionindicated by an arrow R−), the marks are moved down one by one by eachclick.

In a case in which the sensitivity dial 45 and the shutter speed dial 33are provided on the camera body 10 as in the digital camera 1 of thisexample and the surrounding environment is darkened, an imagerepresenting the set state of the operated dial is displayed on thesub-display 18.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the procedure of display processing onthe sub-display performed by the display control unit.

First, the display control unit 80 a acquires information on thebrightness of the surrounding environment (Step S41). The displaycontrol unit 80 a acquires the information on the brightness of thesurrounding environment from the brightness detection unit 76.

Next, the display control unit 80 a determines whether or not thebrightness of the surrounding environment is equal to or lower than athreshold value on the basis of the acquired information on thebrightness (Step S42). That is, the display control unit 80 a determineswhether or not the brightness of the surrounding environment is equal toor lower than certain brightness.

If the brightness of the surrounding environment is not equal to orlower than the threshold value, the display control unit 80 a switches adisplay on the sub-display 18 to the normal display (Step S49). That is,the display control unit 80 a displays the contents of the currentsettings of the digital camera 1 on the sub-display 18 as shown in FIG.6.

On the other hand, if the brightness of the surrounding environment isequal to or lower than the threshold value, the display control unit 80a determines whether or not the dial is operated on the basis of theinformation obtained from the operation unit 74 (Step S43).

If the dial is operated (Step S43), the display control unit 80 adetermines whether or not the operated dial is the sensitivity dial 45(Step S44).

If the operated dial is the sensitivity dial 45, the display controlunit 80 a switches a display on the sub-display 18 to a display for adark place about the sensitivity dial 45 (Step S45).

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a display for a dark place onthe sub-display in a case in which the sensitivity dial is operated.

In a case in which the sensitivity dial is operated as shown in FIG. 21in a situation in which the surrounding environment is dark, thecontents of the current settings of the digital camera 1 and an imagerepresenting the set state of the sensitivity dial 45 are displayed onthe sub-display 18.

In the example shown in FIG. 21, an image picture Im1 of the sensitivitydial 45 and an image picture Im2 of the indicator 46 are displayed onthe sub-display 18 as the image representing the set state of thesensitivity dial 45. Particularly, in the example shown in FIG. 21, theimage picture Im1 of a part of the sensitivity dial 45 and the imagepicture Im2 of the indicator 46 are displayed on the sub-display 18.Further, in the example shown in FIG. 21, selected sensitivity isenlarged and displayed so that the sensitivity selected by thesensitivity dial 45 is clear.

The contents of the current settings of the digital camera 1 aredisplayed in a margin area.

Since the image representing the set state of the sensitivity dial 45 isdisplayed on the sub-display 18 as described above in a case in whichthe surrounding environment is dark, the sensitivity dial 45 can beoperated even in a situation in which the surrounding environment isdark.

If the operated dial is not the sensitivity dial 45, that is, theoperated dial is the shutter speed dial 33, the display control unit 80a switches a display on the sub-display 18 to a display for a dark placeabout the shutter speed dial 33 as shown in FIG. 8 (Step S46).

The display control unit 80 a switches a display on the sub-display 18to the display for a dark place during the rotational operation of thedial. In this case, the display control unit 80 a changes a display inconjunction with the operation of the dial.

The display control unit 80 a determines whether or not the rotationaloperation of the dial ends (Step S47). The display control unit 80 acontinues to switch a display on the sub-display 18 to the display for adark place during the operation.

If the rotational operation of the dial ends, the display control unit80 a determines whether or not a predetermined time passes from the endof the operation (Step S48). That is, even though the operation ends,the display for a dark place is continued for the predetermined time.

If the predetermined time passes after the rotational operation of thedial ends, the display control unit 80 a switches a display on thesub-display 18 to the normal display (Step S49).

After that, the display control unit 80 a determines whether or not thepower supply is turned off (Step S50). If the power supply is turnedoff, the display control unit 80 a ends processing. On the other hand,if the power supply is not turned off, the display control unit 80 areturns to Step S41 and repeatedly performs the above-mentionedrespective pieces of processing.

In a case in which a plurality of dials are provided on the camera bodyas described above, an image representing the set state of the operateddial is displayed on the sub-display 18 as the display for a dark place.

The display control unit 80 a has been adapted to switch a display onthe sub-display 18 in conjunction with the operation in theabove-mentioned example, but may be adapted to switch a display on thesub-display 18 in conjunction with a touch with the dial. In this case,in a case in which the sensitivity dial 45 is touched, the displaycontrol unit 80 a switches a display to the display for a dark placeabout the sensitivity dial 45. In a case in which the shutter speed dial33 is touched, the display control unit 80 a switches a display to thedisplay for a dark place about the shutter speed dial 33.

<Another Form of Dial>

The shape of the dial has been the shape of a disc in theabove-mentioned embodiments, but the form of the rotary dial is notlimited thereto.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of another form of the dial.

A dial 100 shown in FIG. 22 is a dial having a structure in which afirst dial 100A having the shape of a disc and a second dial 100B havingthe shape of a ring are combined with each other. The first and seconddials 100A and 100B are disposed coaxially with each other.

The first dial 100A includes a dial plate 100Aa on the top surfacethereof, and a user fits each of items (not shown) displayed on the dialplate 100Aa to an indicator 102 to select each of the items displayed onthe dial plate 100Aa.

The second dial 100B is rotated on the outer periphery of a base portionof the first dial 100A. The second dial 100B includes a dial plate 100Baon the outer peripheral surface thereof, and a user fits each of items(P, S, A, and M) displayed on the dial plate 100Ba to the indicator 102to select each of the items displayed on the dial plate 100Ba. Theexample shown in FIG. 22 shows a case in which the second dial 100B isused as a mode dial. The mode dial is a dial that is used to set animaging mode. P denotes a program mode, S denotes a shutter speedpriority mode, A denotes a stop priority mode, and M denotes a manualmode.

As in the case of the second dial 100B, the dial provided on the camerabody can also be formed in the shape of a ring.

<Disposition of Dial>

The dial has been disposed on the top surface of the camera body in theabove-mentioned embodiments, but a position where the dial is disposedis not limited thereto. For example, the dial can be disposed on theback of the camera body.

<<Other Examples of Sub-Display>>

The sub-display has been formed of a reflective LCD provided with anillumination lamp in the above-mentioned embodiments, but the structureof the sub-display is not limited thereto. Alternatively, thesub-display can also be formed of, for example, an electronic paperprovided with an illumination lamp, a memory liquid crystal displayprovided with an illumination lamp, or the like.

The electronic paper is a thin display that has thinness and visibilityat the same level as those of paper, and means a display of whichcontents to be displayed can be rewritten. The memory liquid crystaldisplay is a liquid crystal display that has a function to be capable ofmaintaining contents displayed on a screen even though a power supply isturned off. Both of the electronic paper and the memory liquid crystaldisplay can ensure good visibility even in an environment wheresurroundings are bright. Further, a display on the display unit can beconfirmed even in a case in which the power supply of the camera isturned off

<Control of Illumination Lamp of Sub-Display>

The illumination lamp of the sub-display may be controlled according tothe brightness of the surrounding environment. That is, the illuminationlamp may be adapted to be automatically turned on in a case in which thesurrounding environment is darkened.

The control of the illumination lamp of the sub-display 18 is performedby the system controller 80. The system controller 80 functions as anillumination lamp-control unit 80 b for the sub-display 18 by executinga predetermined control program.

FIG. 23 is a functional block diagram of the illumination lamp-controlunit.

The sub-display 18 includes a sub-display illumination lamp 18 a. Asub-display illumination lamp-drive unit 82 drives the sub-displayillumination lamp 18 a according to a command output from the systemcontroller 80 that is the illumination lamp-control unit 80 b.

The illumination lamp-control unit 80 b controls the turning-on of thesub-display illumination lamp 18 a according to the brightness of thesurrounding environment. Specifically, the illumination lamp-controlunit 80 b acquires the detection result of brightness from thebrightness detection unit 76, compares the acquired brightness and athreshold value, and turns on the sub-display illumination lamp 18 a ina case in which the acquired brightness is equal to or lower than thethreshold value. Accordingly, a display on the sub-display 18 can bemade to be easily seen even in a situation in which the surroundings aredark.

The threshold value may be equal to the threshold value that is used ina case in which the display control of the sub-display 18 is performed.Further, a plurality of threshold values may be prepared to change thebrightness of the sub-display illumination lamp 18 a in stages.Accordingly, a display, which is more excellent in visibility, can beobtained.

Further, the turning-on/off of the sub-display illumination lamp 18 amay be in conjunction with the operation of the dial or a touch with thedial as in the case of a display on the sub-display 18. That is, thesub-display illumination lamp 18 a may be adapted to be automaticallyturned on in a case in which the surrounding environment is darkened andthe dial is operated or touched, and to be automatically turned off in acase in which the operation of the dial ends or a touch with the dialends.

<<Brightness Detection Unit>>

The imaging light has been used to detect the brightness of thesurrounding environment in the above-mentioned embodiments, but meansfor detecting the brightness of the surrounding environment is notlimited thereto. A sensor for detecting brightness may be provided onthe camera body to directly detect the brightness of the surroundingenvironment. In this case, it is preferable that the sensor fordetecting brightness is provided near the dial.

<<Main Display>>

In a case in which the surrounding environment is darkened, an imagerepresenting the set state of the dial has been displayed on thesub-display in the above-mentioned embodiments but may be displayed onthe main display.

Further, the main display 16 has been fixed to the camera body 10 in theabove-mentioned embodiments, but may be adapted to be movable in a freedirection. That is, the main display 16 may be formed of a so-calledvariable-angle display.

FIG. 24 is a left side view showing an example of a digital camera ofwhich a main display is formed of a variable-angle display.

As shown in FIG. 24, a main display 16 of a digital camera 1 of thisexample is tiltably supported by a main display-support mechanism 110.That is, the main display 16 is formed of a variable-angle display.

In a case in which the main display 16 is formed of a variable-angledisplay as described above, an image representing the set state of thedial may be displayed on the main display 16 in conjunction with anoperation for tilting the main display 16. In this case, an imagerepresenting the set state of the dial is displayed on the main display16 in a case in which brightness detected by the brightness detectionunit is equal to or lower than a prescribed brightness and the maindisplay 16 is set to a prescribed angle. For example, an imagerepresenting the set state of the dial is displayed on the main display16 in a case in which the main display 16 is horizontal. Horizontal inthis case means a state in which the main display 16 is parallel to theoptical axis L. In a case in which an image representing the set stateof the dial is displayed, information on the contents of settings of thedigital camera 1 can be included in the contents to be displayed on themain display 16.

Likewise, the sub-display can also be formed of a variable-angledisplay. Even in this case, a display on the sub-display can becontrolled in conjunction with of the tilt of the sub-display.

<<Contents of Settings of Camera>>

In the above-mentioned embodiments, information on a shutter speed, astop value, ISO sensitivity, the number of times of imaging that can beperformed, an imaging mode, an image size, and remaining battery powerhave been displayed on the sub-display as the contents of settings ofthe camera during the normal display. However, the information to bedisplayed on the sub-display is not limited thereto. The amount ofinformation to be displayed on the sub-display can be appropriatelyincreased or reduced according to the size of the sub-display, or thelike.

Further, in a case in which the contents of settings of the camera aredisplayed in a margin area in the display for a dark place, the contentsto be displayed in the display for a dark place may be different fromthe contents to be displayed in the normal display. For example,information on a shutter speed, a stop value, ISO sensitivity, thenumber of times of imaging that can be performed, an imaging mode, animage size, and remaining battery power are displayed in the normaldisplay; and only a shutter speed, a stop value, and ISO sensitivity maybe displayed in the display for a dark place.

Further, the contents to be displayed may be adapted to be appropriatelyselected by a user.

Other Embodiments

A case in which the invention is applied to a digital camera has beendescribed by way of example in the above-mentioned embodiments, but theapplication of the invention is not limited thereto. The invention canbe applied to a camera using a silver halide film.

Further, a case in which the invention is applied to alens-interchangeable camera has been described by way of example in theabove-mentioned embodiments, but the invention can also be applied to acamera, which is integrated with a lens, likewise.

Furthermore, a case in which the invention is applied to a non-reflexcamera has been described by way of example in the above-mentionedembodiments, but the invention can also be applied to a reflex cameralikewise.

EXPLANATION OF REFERENCES

-   -   1: digital camera    -   2: lens    -   2 a: lens drive unit    -   10: camera body    -   12: grip portion    -   14: lens mount    -   16: main display    -   18: sub-display    -   18 a: sub-display illumination lamp    -   20: electronic view finder    -   20A: eyepiece portion    -   22: grip    -   24: thumb rest    -   30: shutter button    -   31: power supply lever    -   32: front command dial    -   33: shutter speed dial    -   33T: touch sensor    -   33 a: dial plate    -   34: indicator    -   35: illumination button    -   36: function button    -   37: first rear command dial    -   38: second rear command dial    -   39: selector button    -   40: menu button    -   41: cancel button    -   42: play button    -   43: delete button    -   44: imaging condition-setting button    -   45: sensitivity dial    -   45 a: dial plate    -   46: indicator    -   50: image sensor    -   52: image sensor drive unit    -   54: shutter    -   56: shutter drive unit    -   58: analog signal processing section    -   60: image data input unit    -   62: work memory    -   64: data memory    -   66: digital signal processing section    -   68: recording control unit    -   70: main display drive unit    -   72: sub-display drive unit    -   74: operation unit    -   76: brightness detection unit    -   78: memory card    -   80: system controller    -   80 a: display control unit    -   80 b: illumination lamp-control unit    -   82: sub-display illumination lamp-drive unit    -   100: dial    -   100A: first dial    -   100Aa: dial plate    -   100B: second dial    -   100Ba: dial plate    -   102: indicator    -   110: main display-support mechanism    -   400: sensitivity    -   A1: shutter speed    -   A2: stop value    -   A3: ISO sensitivity    -   A4: the number of times of imaging that can be performed    -   A5: imaging mode    -   A6: image size    -   A7: remaining battery power    -   B: area    -   I: indicator image    -   Im: image picture    -   Im1: image picture    -   Im2: image picture    -   L: optical axis    -   R: arrow    -   W: window image    -   W−1: window image    -   W−2: window image    -   S11 to S15: procedure of display processing on sub-display    -   S21 to S28: procedure of display processing on sub-display    -   S31 to S38: procedure of display processing on sub-display    -   S41 to S50: procedure of display processing on sub-display

What is claimed is:
 1. A camera comprising: a rotary dial on which aplurality of selectable items are displayed in a rotation direction andwhich is used to fit an item to be set to an indicator to select theitem; a brightness detection unit, including a sensor, that detects abrightness of a surrounding environment; a display; and a microcomputerthat controls a display on the display, wherein the microcomputer:displays contents of settings of the camera on the display when it isdetermined that the brightness that is detected is higher than aprescribed brightness, and switches the display to display an image,which represents a set state of the dial, on the display in a case inwhich the brightness that is detected is equal to or lower than theprescribed brightness.
 2. The camera according to claim 1, wherein themicrocomputer changes the image, which represents the set state of thedial, according to a rotational operation of the dial.
 3. The cameraaccording to claim 1, further comprising: a touch detection unit,including a touch sensor, that detects a touch with the dial, whereinthe microcomputer displays the image, which represents the set state ofthe dial, on the display in a case in which the brightness that isdetected is equal to or lower than the prescribed brightness and a touchwith the dial is detected by the touch detection unit.
 4. The cameraaccording to claim 1, wherein the microcomputer displays the image,which represents the set state of the dial, on the display in a case inwhich the brightness that is detected is equal to or lower than theprescribed brightness and the dial is rotationally operated, and changesthe image, which represents the set state of the dial, according to arotational operation of the dial.
 5. The camera according to claim 1,wherein the microcomputer displays an image picture of the dial on thedisplay as the image that represents the set state of the dial.
 6. Thecamera according to claim 5, wherein the microcomputer displays an imagepicture of a part of the dial, which is cut out, on the display in acase in which the microcomputer displays the image picture of the dialon the display as the image that represents the set state of the dial.7. The camera according to claim 1, wherein the microcomputer reducesand displays contents of settings of the camera on the display in a casein which the microcomputer displays the image, which represents the setstate of the dial, on the display.
 8. The camera according to claim 1,wherein the dial is disposed on a top surface of a camera body.
 9. Thecamera according to claim 8, wherein the display is disposed on the topsurface of the camera body.
 10. The camera according to claim 1, whereinthe display is formed of a reflective liquid crystal display providedwith an illumination lamp.
 11. The camera according to claim 1, whereinthe display is formed of an electronic paper provided with anillumination lamp.
 12. The camera according to claim 1, wherein thedisplay is formed of a memory liquid crystal display provided with anillumination lamp.
 13. The camera according to claim 10, wherein themicrocomputer controls the illumination lamp, wherein the microcomputerturns on the illumination lamp in a case in which the brightnessdetected by the microcomputer is equal to or lower than the prescribedbrightness.
 14. The camera according to claim 1, wherein themicrocomputer detects the brightness of the surrounding environment onthe basis of imaging light.
 15. The camera according to claim 1, whereinat least one of a shutter speed, a stop value, or sensitivity, which isset, is included in the contents of settings of the camera displayed onthe display.